Vrouwenhuis

In the heart of Zwolle, a charming Dutch city, lies a hidden gem that whispers stories of its storied past: the Vrouwenhuis. Nestled on Melkmarkt 53, this historic building once served as a sanctuary for elderly women and now stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Today, it houses a small museum and serves as student accommodations, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of its former residents and the artistic legacy they left behind.

The Historical Tapestry of Vrouwenhuis

The Vrouwenhuis has a history that stretches back to the 17th century, a time when Zwolle was a bustling port city. Originally located near the old weigh house by the harbour, it was a significant waypoint for ships navigating the IJssel River. This strategic location made it a prime piece of real estate, and in 1645, it was purchased by Hendrik Wolfsen, a young and affluent lawyer.

Hendrik Wolfsen, the son of a councilman, brought a touch of grandeur to the house with renovations that reflected his status. His daughter, Aleijda Wolfsen, born in 1648, would later inherit the house and add her own artistic flair to it. Aleijda, a talented painter, married Pieter Soury, who would become the mayor of Zwolle. Together, they expanded the house to accommodate their growing family and Aleijda’s artistic pursuits. The hallway connecting the front and rear of the house, along with the elegant carved mantelpiece and marble floors, were all added during this period, making the Vrouwenhuis a true reflection of 17th-century opulence.

An Artistic Haven

Aleijda Wolfsen was not the only artist to leave her mark on the Vrouwenhuis. In 1686, the house became a hub for a small painting school led by Wilhelmus Beurs. His pupils, including the half-sisters Cornelia van Marle and Aleida Greve, as well as Sophia Holt and Anna Cornelia Holt, created works that are still on display in the regent's room today. These women, under Beurs' tutelage, produced remarkable pieces that capture the essence of their time.

Beurs was immensely proud of his pupils, and his dedication to their craft is evident in a book on painting he published in 1692. The frontispiece of this book features three women gazing at paintings, a tribute to his talented students. It is believed that before Beurs arrived in Zwolle, these women may have received instruction from other local painters such as Aleijda Wolfsen or Gesina ter Borch, another prominent artist of the period.

A Legacy of Care

Aleijda Wolfsen’s artistic journey was tragically cut short when she died in childbirth in 1692. The house on Melkmarkt was later purchased by Aleida Greve and her younger sisters in 1706. Aleida, an unmarried woman, had a vision for the Vrouwenhuis that extended beyond her lifetime. In 1718, she drew up a will outlining her plans to transform the house into a retirement home for 17 women of the Dutch Reformed faith.

When Aleida Greve passed away in 1742, her dream became a reality. The Vrouwenhuis was converted into a home for elderly women, with Aleida’s sitting room becoming the regent’s room. The house functioned as a retirement home until 1984, providing a safe haven for single women for over two centuries. The first inhabitant was Aleida Greve’s elderly servant, and the tradition of care continued through the generations.

The Vrouwenhuis Today

In 1987, the ground floor of the Vrouwenhuis was transformed into a museum, preserving the rich history and artistic heritage of the building. The current director, Saskia Zwiers, an artist and art historian, has dedicated herself to researching the paintings and artists associated with the Vrouwenhuis. She has even created a period-style dollhouse, modeled on the Vrouwenhuis, which is on display in the museum.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Vrouwenhuis is its art collection. Aleida Greve’s will stipulated that her sitting room, with all its paintings and furnishings, should remain intact. This has allowed the collection to survive as a time capsule, offering a rare glimpse into the art and curiosities of a bygone era. Among the notable works in the collection are pieces by Peter van den Velde, including his signed View of Gibraltar and other marine views.

Visiting the Vrouwenhuis

While the Vrouwenhuis is not open to the public on a regular basis, it can be visited by special request. This exclusivity adds to the allure of the museum, making a visit feel like a step back in time. As you walk through the rooms, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, from the bustling harbour days to the quiet moments of reflection in Aleida Greve’s sitting room.

The Vrouwenhuis is more than just a building; it is a living testament to the resilience, creativity, and compassion of the women who lived there. It stands as a reminder of the important role women have played in the cultural and social fabric of Zwolle. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Vrouwenhuis offers a unique and enriching experience that should not be missed.